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Watanabe M, Tsugeno Y, Sato T, Higashide M, Umetsu A, Furuhashi M, Ohguro H. Inhibition of mTOR differently modulates planar and subepithelial fibrogenesis in human conjunctival fibroblasts. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2024:10.1007/s00417-024-06481-2. [PMID: 39042147 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-024-06481-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE In the current investigation, the effects of the mTOR inhibitors, Rapa and Torin1 on the TGF-β2-induced conjunctival fibrogenesis were studied. STUDY DESIGN Experimental research. METHODS 2D and 3D cultures of HconF were subjected to the following analyses; (1) planar proliferation evaluated by TEER (2D), (2) Seahorse metabolic analyses (2D), (3) subepithelial proliferation evaluated by the 3D spheroids' size and hardness, and (4) the mRNA expression of ECM proteins and their regulators (2D and 3D). RESULT Rapa or Torin1 both significantly increased planar proliferation in the non-TGF-β2-treated 2D HconF cells, but in the TGF-β2-treated cells, this proliferation was inhibited by Rapa and enhanced by Torin1. Although Rapa or Torin1 did not affect cellular metabolism in the non-TGF-β2-treated HconF cells, mTOR inhibitors significantly decreased and increased the mitochondrial respiration and the glycolytic capacity, respectively, under conditions of TGF-β2-induced fibrogenesis. Subepithelial proliferation, as evidenced by the hardness of the 3D spheroids, was markedly down-regulated by both Rapa and Torin1 independent of TGF-β2. The mRNA expressions of several ECM molecules and their regulators fluctuated in the cases of 2D vs 3D and TGF-β2 untreated vs treated cultures. CONCLUSION The present findings indicate that mTOR inhibitors have the ability to increase and to reduce planar and subepithelial proliferation in HconF cells, depending on the inhibitor being used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megumi Watanabe
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan.
| | - Yuri Tsugeno
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Tatsuya Sato
- Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan
- Cellular Physiology and Signal Transduction, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Megumi Higashide
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Araya Umetsu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Masato Furuhashi
- Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic Medicine, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ohguro
- Department of Ophthalmology, Sapporo Medical University School of Medicine, Sapporo Ika Daigaku, Hirosaki, Japan.
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Trujillo Cubillo L, Gurdal M, Zeugolis DI. Corneal fibrosis: From in vitro models to current and upcoming drug and gene medicines. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2024; 209:115317. [PMID: 38642593 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2024.115317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/22/2024]
Abstract
Fibrotic diseases are characterised by myofibroblast differentiation, uncontrolled pathological extracellular matrix accumulation, tissue contraction, scar formation and, ultimately tissue / organ dysfunction. The cornea, the transparent tissue located on the anterior chamber of the eye, is extremely susceptible to fibrotic diseases, which cause loss of corneal transparency and are often associated with blindness. Although topical corticosteroids and antimetabolites are extensively used in the management of corneal fibrosis, they are associated with glaucoma, cataract formation, corneoscleral melting and infection, imposing the need of far more effective therapies. Herein, we summarise and discuss shortfalls and recent advances in in vitro models (e.g. transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) / ascorbic acid / interleukin (IL) induced) and drug (e.g. TGF-β inhibitors, epigenetic modulators) and gene (e.g. gene editing, gene silencing) therapeutic strategies in the corneal fibrosis context. Emerging therapeutical agents (e.g. neutralising antibodies, ligand traps, receptor kinase inhibitors, antisense oligonucleotides) that have shown promise in clinical setting but have not yet assessed in corneal fibrosis context are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trujillo Cubillo
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mehmet Gurdal
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dimitrios I Zeugolis
- Regenerative, Modular & Developmental Engineering Laboratory (REMODEL), Charles Institute of Dermatology, Conway Institute of Biomolecular & Biomedical Research and School of Mechanical & Materials Engineering, University College Dublin (UCD), Dublin, Ireland.
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Chibly AM, Patel VN, Aure MH, Pasquale MC, Martin GE, Ghannam M, Andrade J, Denegre NG, Simpson C, Goldstein DP, Liu FF, Lombaert IMA, Hoffman MP. Neurotrophin signaling is a central mechanism of salivary dysfunction after irradiation that disrupts myoepithelial cells. NPJ Regen Med 2023; 8:17. [PMID: 36966175 PMCID: PMC10039923 DOI: 10.1038/s41536-023-00290-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanisms that prevent regeneration of irradiated (IR) salivary glands remain elusive. Bulk RNAseq of IR versus non-IR human salivary glands showed that neurotrophin signaling is highly disrupted post-radiation. Neurotrophin receptors (NTRs) were significantly upregulated in myoepithelial cells (MECs) post-IR, and single cell RNAseq revealed that MECs pericytes, and duct cells are the main sources of neurotrophin ligands. Using two ex vivo models, we show that nerve growth factor (NGF) induces expression of MEC genes during development, and upregulation of NTRs in adult MECs is associated with stress-induced plasticity and morphological abnormalities in IR human glands. As MECs are epithelial progenitors after gland damage and are required for proper acinar cell contraction and secretion, we propose that MEC-specific upregulation of NTRs post-IR disrupts MEC differentiation and potentially impedes the ability of the gland to regenerate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro M Chibly
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| | - Vaishali N Patel
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Marit H Aure
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Mary C Pasquale
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Gemma E Martin
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Mousa Ghannam
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Julianne Andrade
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Noah G Denegre
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Colleen Simpson
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - David P Goldstein
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - Fei-Fei Liu
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Princess Margaret Cancer Center, Toronto, ON, M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Isabelle M A Lombaert
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
- Department of Biologic and Material Sciences, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Matthew P Hoffman
- Matrix and Morphogenesis Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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Short-Term In Vitro ROS Detection and Oxidative Stress Regulators in Epiretinal Membranes and Vitreous from Idiopathic Vitreoretinal Diseases. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:7497816. [PMID: 36567907 PMCID: PMC9788888 DOI: 10.1155/2022/7497816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background A plethora of inflammatory, angiogenic, and tissue remodeling factors has been reported in idiopathic epiretinal membranes (ERMs). Herein we focused on the expression of a few mediators (oxidative, inflammatory, and angiogenic/vascular factors) by means of short-term vitreal cell cultures and biomolecular analysis. Methods Thirty-nine (39) ERMs and vitreal samples were collected at the time of vitreoretinal surgery and biomolecular analyses were performed in clear vitreous, vitreal cell pellets, and ERMs. ROS products and iNOS were investigated in adherent vitreal cells and/or ERMs, and iNOS, VEGF, Ang-2, IFNγ, IL18, and IL22 were quantified in vitreous (ELISA/Ella, IF/WB); transcripts specific for iNOS, p65NFkB, KEAP1, NRF2, and NOX1/NOX4 were detected in ERMs (PCR). Biomolecular changes were analyzed and correlated with disease severity. Results The higher ROS production was observed in vitreal cells at stage 4, and iNOS was found in ERMs and increased in the vitreous as early as at stage 3. Both iNOS and NOX4 were upregulated at all stages, while p65NFkB was increased at stage 3. iNOS and NOX1 were positively and inversely related with p65NFkB. While NOX4 transcripts were always upregulated, NRF2 was upregulated at stage 3 and inverted at stage 4. No significant changes occurred in the release of angiogenic (VEGF, Ang-2) and proinflammatory (IL18, IL22 and IFNγ) mediators between all stages investigated. Conclusions ROS production was strictly associated with iNOS and NOX4 overexpression and increased depending on ERM stadiation. The higher iNOS expression occurred as early as stage 3, with respect to p65NFkB and NRF2. These last mediators might have potential prognostic values in ERMs as representative of an underneath retinal damage.
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Li P, Fei CS, Chen YL, Chen ZS, Lai ZM, Tan RQ, Yu YP, Xiang X, Dong JL, Zhang JX, Wang L, Zhang ZM. Revealing the novel autophagy-related genes for ligamentum flavum hypertrophy in patients and mice model. Front Immunol 2022; 13:973799. [PMID: 36275675 PMCID: PMC9581255 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.973799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fibrosis is a core pathological factor of ligamentum flavum hypertrophy (LFH) resulting in degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis. Autophagy plays a vital role in multi-organ fibrosis. However, autophagy has not been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of LFH. Methods The LFH microarray data set GSE113212, derived from Gene Expression Omnibus, was analyzed to obtain differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Potential autophagy-related genes (ARGs) were obtained with the human autophagy regulator database. Functional analyses including Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), and Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA) were conducted to elucidate the underlying biological pathways of autophagy regulating LFH. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analyses was used to obtain hub ARGs. Using transmission electron microscopy, quantitative RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry, we identified six hub ARGs in clinical specimens and bipedal standing (BS) mouse model. Results A total of 70 potential differentially expressed ARGs were screened, including 50 up-regulated and 20 down-regulated genes. According to GO enrichment and KEGG analyses, differentially expressed ARGs were mainly enriched in autophagy-related enrichment terms and signaling pathways related to autophagy. GSEA and GSVA results revealed the potential mechanisms by demonstrating the signaling pathways and biological processes closely related to LFH. Based on PPI network analysis, 14 hub ARGs were identified. Using transmission electron microscopy, we observed the autophagy process in LF tissues for the first time. Quantitative RT-PCR, Western blotting, and immunohistochemistry results indicated that the mRNA and protein expression levels of FN1, TGFβ1, NGF, and HMOX1 significantly higher both in human and mouse with LFH, while the mRNA and protein expression levels of CAT and SIRT1 were significantly decreased. Conclusion Based on bioinformatics analysis and further experimental validation in clinical specimens and the BS mouse model, six potential ARGs including FN1, TGFβ1, NGF, HMOX1, CAT, and SIRT1 were found to participate in the fibrosis process of LFH through autophagy and play an essential role in its molecular mechanism. These potential genes may serve as specific therapeutic molecular targets in the treatment of LFH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Li
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cheng-shuo Fei
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan-lin Chen
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ze-sen Chen
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong-ming Lai
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rui-qian Tan
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yong-peng Yu
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Xiang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-le Dong
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jun-xiong Zhang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Academy of Orthopedics, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Liang Wang, ; Zhong-min Zhang,
| | - Zhong-min Zhang
- Division of Spine Surgery, Department of Orthopedics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Liang Wang, ; Zhong-min Zhang,
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Esposito G, Balzamino BO, Rocco ML, Aloe L, Micera A. Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) as Partaker in the Modulation of UV-Response in Cultured Human Conjunctival Fibroblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116337. [PMID: 35683016 PMCID: PMC9181148 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Corroborating data sustain the pleiotropic effect of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the protection of the visual system from dangerous stimuli, including ultraviolet (UV). Since UV exposure might promote ocular surface changes (conjunctival inflammation and matrix rearrangement), as previously reported from in vivo studies sustaining some protective NGF effects, in vitro cultures of human conjunctival fibroblasts (FBs) were developed and exposed to a single UV exposure over 15 min (0.277 W/m2), either alone or supplemented with NGF (1–10–100 ng/mL). Conditioned media and cell monolayers were collected and analyzed for protein release (ELISA, ELLA microfluidic) and transcript expression (real-time PCR). A specific “inflammatory to remodeling” pattern (IL8, VEGF, IL33, OPN, and CYR61) as well as a few epigenetic transcripts (known as modulator of cell differentiation and matrix-remodeling (DNMT3a, HDAC1, NRF2 and KEAP1)) were investigated in parallel. UV-exposed FBs (i), showed no proliferation or significant cytoskeleton rearrangement; (ii), displayed a trkANGFR/p75NTR phenotype; and (iii), synthesized/released IL8, VEGF-A, IL33, OPN, and CYR61, as compared to unexposed ones. NGF addition counteracted IL8, IL33, OPN, and CYR61 protein release merely at lower NGF concentrations but not VEGF. NGF supplementation did not affect DNMT3a or HDAC1 transcripts, while it significantly upregulated NRF2 at lowest NGF doses and did not change KEAP1 expression. Taken together, a single UV exposure activated conjunctival FBs to release pro-inflammatory/fibrogenic factors in association with epigenetic changes. The effects were selectively counteracted by NGF supplementation in a dose-dependent fashion, most probably accountable to the trkANGFR/p75NTR phenotype. Further in vitro studies are underway to better understand this additional NGF pleiotropic effect. Since UV-shield impairments represent a worldwide alert and UV radiation can slowly affect ocular surface homeostasis (photo-ageing, cataract) or might exacerbate ocular diseases with a preexisting fibrosis (pterygium, VKC), these findings on NGF modulation of UV-exposed FBs might provide additional information for protecting the ocular surface (homeostasis) from low-grade long-lasting UV insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graziana Esposito
- Research and Development Laboratory for Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Applications in Ophthalmological Science, IRCCS—Fondazione Bietti, 00198 Rome, Italy; (G.E.); (B.O.B.)
| | - Bijorn Omar Balzamino
- Research and Development Laboratory for Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Applications in Ophthalmological Science, IRCCS—Fondazione Bietti, 00198 Rome, Italy; (G.E.); (B.O.B.)
| | - Maria Luisa Rocco
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, CNR, 00143 Rome, Italy;
- Fondazione IRET, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Luigi Aloe
- Fondazione IRET, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
- Associazione NGF ONLUS, 00172 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Micera
- Research and Development Laboratory for Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Applications in Ophthalmological Science, IRCCS—Fondazione Bietti, 00198 Rome, Italy; (G.E.); (B.O.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Morphofunctional Characterization of Different Tissue Factors in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Affected Tissue. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020289. [PMID: 33673194 PMCID: PMC7918239 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital diaphragm hernia (CDH) is a congenital disease that occurs during prenatal development. Although the morbidity and mortality rate is rather significant, the pathogenesis of CDH has been studied insignificantly due to the decreased accessibility of human pathological material. Therefore the aim of our work was to evaluate growth factors (transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)) and their receptors (fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1R)), muscle (dystrophin, myosin, alpha actin) and nerve quality (nerve growth factor (NGF), nerve growth factor receptor (NGFR), neurofilaments (NF)) factors, local defense factors (ß-defensin 2, ß-defensin 4), programmed cell death (TUNEL), and separate gene (Wnt-1) expression in human pathological material to find immunohistochemical marker differences between the control and the CDH patient groups. A semi-quantitative counting method was used for the evaluation of the tissues and structures in the Biotin-Streptavidin-stained slides. Various statistically significant differences were found in immunoreactive expression between the patient and the control group tissue and the morphological structures as well as very strong, strong, and moderate correlations between immunoreactives in different diaphragm cells and structures. These significant changes and various correlations indicate that multiple morphopathogenetic pathways are affected in CDH pathogenesis. This work contains the evaluation of the causes for these changes and their potential involvement in CDH pathogenesis.
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Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) modulates in vitro induced myofibroblasts by highlighting a differential protein signature. Sci Rep 2021; 11:1672. [PMID: 33462282 PMCID: PMC7814037 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-81040-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously described the profibrogenic effect of NGF on conjunctival Fibroblasts (FBs) and its ability to trigger apoptosis in TGFβ1-induced myofibroblasts (myoFBs). Herein, cell apoptosis/signalling, cytokines' signature in conditioned media and inflammatory as well as angiogenic pathway were investigated. Experimental myoFBs were exposed to NGF (0.1-100 ng/mL), at defined time-point for confocal and biomolecular analysis. Cells were analysed for apoptotic and cell signalling activation in cell extracts and for some inflammatory and proinflammatory/angiogenic factors' activations. NGF triggered cJun overexpression and phospho-p65-NFkB nuclear translocation. A decreased Bcl2:Bax ratio and a significant expression of smad7 were confirmed in early AnnexinV-positive myoFBs. A specific protein signature characterised the conditioned media: a dose dependent decrease occurred for IL8, IL6 while a selective increase was observed for VEGF and cyr61 (protein/mRNA). TIMP1 levels were unaffected. Herein, NGF modulation of smad7, the specific IL8 and IL6 as well as VEGF and cyr61 modulation deserve more attention as opening to alternative approaches to counteract fibrosis.
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Di Zazzo A, Micera A, De Piano M, Coassin M, Sharma S, Bonini S, Fernandes M. Adult Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis: Clinical and biochemical profile of a rare disease. Ocul Surf 2019; 17:737-742. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2019.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 06/16/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Zhao Y, Ding CH. In vitro Effects of Nerve Growth Factor on Cardiac Fibroblasts Proliferation, Cell Cycle, Migration, and Myofibroblast Transformation. Chin Med J (Engl) 2018; 131:813-817. [PMID: 29578125 PMCID: PMC5887740 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.228232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Recent research indicates that nerve growth factor (NGF) promotes cardiac repair following myocardial infarction by promoting angiogenesis and cardiomyocyte survival. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of NGF on cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) proliferation, cell cycle, migration, and myofibroblast transformation in vitro. Methods: CFs were obtained from ventricles of neonatal Sprague-Dawley rats and incubated with various concentrations of NGF (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 ng/ml; 0 ng/ml was designated as the control group). Cell proliferation and cell cycle of the CFs were measured by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and flow cytometry (FCM), respectively. A cell scratch wound model and transwell were carried out to observe effects of NGF on migration of CFs after 24 h of culture. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting were used to measure α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) at mRNA and protein levels after CFs were incubated with various concentrations of NGF. Results: Expression of α-SMA measured by RT-PCR and Western blotting significantly increased in the 1 and 10 ng/ml NGF groups (P < 0.05). Absorbance values of CFs showed that NGF did not influence the proliferation of CFs (The A490 values were 0.178 ± 0.038, 0.182 ± 0.011, 0.189 ± 0.005, 0.178 ± 0.010, 0.185 ± 0.025, and 0.177 ± 0.033, respectively, in the 0, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 ng/ml NGF groups [P = 0.800, 0.428, 0.981, 0.596, and 0.913, respectively, compared with control group]), and FCM analysis showed that the percentage of CFs in G0/G1, S, and G2/M phases was not changed (P > 0.05). The cell scratch wound model and transwell showed that CFs migration was not significantly different (P > 0.05). Conclusion: NGF induces myofibroblast transformation but does not influence proliferation, cell cycle, or migration of CFs in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Zhao
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated with Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Zhongshan, Guangdong 528400, China
| | - Chun-Hua Ding
- Department of Cardiology, Aerospace Center Hospital, Peking University Aerospace Clinical College of Medicine, Beijing 100049, China
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NGF protects corneal, retinal, and cutaneous tissues/cells from phototoxic effect of UV exposure. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2018; 256:729-738. [DOI: 10.1007/s00417-018-3931-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 12/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
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Zada M, Pattamatta U, White A. Modulation of Fibroblasts in Conjunctival Wound Healing. Ophthalmology 2017; 125:179-192. [PMID: 29079272 DOI: 10.1016/j.ophtha.2017.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Revised: 07/18/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Modulating conjunctival wound healing has the potential to improve outcomes after glaucoma filtration surgery and for several ocular disorders, including ocular cicatrial pemphigoid, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, and pterygium. Although anti-inflammatories and antimetabolites have been used with success, these nonspecific agents are not without their complications. The search for novel and more targeted means to control conjunctival fibrosis without such limitations has brought much attention to the regulation of fibroblast proliferation, differentiation, extracellular matrix production, and apoptosis. This review provides an update on where we stand with current antifibrotic agents and outlines the strategies that novel agents use, as they evolve from the bench to the bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Zada
- Glaucoma Cell Biology Group, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Ushasree Pattamatta
- Glaucoma Cell Biology Group, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Andrew White
- Glaucoma Cell Biology Group, The Westmead Institute for Medical Research, NSW, Australia; Discipline of Ophthalmology, Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia; Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Aloe L, Rocco ML, Balzamino BO, Micera A. Nerve Growth Factor: A Focus on Neuroscience and Therapy. Curr Neuropharmacol 2016; 13:294-303. [PMID: 26411962 PMCID: PMC4812798 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x13666150403231920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor (NGF) is the firstly discovered and best characterized neurotrophic factor, known to play a critical protective role in the development and survival of sympathetic, sensory and forebrain cholinergic neurons. NGF promotes neuritis outgrowth both in vivo and in vitro and nerve cell recovery after ischemic, surgical or chemical injuries. Recently, the therapeutic property of NGF has been demonstrated on human cutaneous and corneal ulcers, pressure ulcer, glaucoma, maculopathy and retinitis pigmentosa. NGF eye drops administration is well tolerated, with no detectable clinical evidence of systemic or local adverse effects. The aim of this review is to summarize these biological properties and the potential clinical development of NGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Aloe
- Institute of Cell Biology and Neurobiology, National Research Council (CNR); NGF Section, Via Fosso di Fiorano, 64/65 - 00143 Rome, Italy.
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Li M, Luan F, Zhao Y, Hao H, Zhou Y, Han W, Fu X. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition: An emerging target in tissue fibrosis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2015; 241:1-13. [PMID: 26361988 DOI: 10.1177/1535370215597194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 06/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is involved in a variety of tissue fibroses. Fibroblasts/myofibroblasts derived from epithelial cells contribute to the excessive accumulation of fibrous connective tissue in damaged tissue, which can lead to permanent scarring or organ malfunction. Therefore, EMT-related fibrosis cannot be neglected. This review highlights the findings that demonstrate the EMT to be a direct contributor to the fibroblast/myofibroblast population in the development of tissue fibrosis and helps to elucidate EMT-related anti-fibrotic strategies, which may enable the development of therapeutic interventions to suppress EMT and potentially reverse organ fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meirong Li
- Wound Healing and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institute of Basic Medical Science, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China Trauma Treatment Center, Central Laboratory, Chinese PLA General Hospital Hainan Branch, Sanya 572014, P. R. China
| | - Fuxin Luan
- Trauma Treatment Center, Central Laboratory, Chinese PLA General Hospital Hainan Branch, Sanya 572014, P. R. China
| | - Yali Zhao
- Wound Healing and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institute of Basic Medical Science, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China Trauma Treatment Center, Central Laboratory, Chinese PLA General Hospital Hainan Branch, Sanya 572014, P. R. China
| | - Haojie Hao
- Wound Healing and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institute of Basic Medical Science, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China
| | - Yong Zhou
- Wound Healing and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institute of Basic Medical Science, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China
| | - Weidong Han
- Wound Healing and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institute of Basic Medical Science, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China
| | - Xiaobing Fu
- Wound Healing and Cell Biology Laboratory, Institute of Basic Medical Science, Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, P. R. China
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Balzamino BO, Esposito G, Marino R, Keller F, Micera A. NGF Expression in Reelin-Deprived Retinal Cells: A Potential Neuroprotective Effect. Neuromolecular Med 2015; 17:314-25. [PMID: 26066836 DOI: 10.1007/s12017-015-8360-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 05/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
We recently reported that increased NGF and p75(NTR) as well as decreased trkA(NGFR) characterized the Reelin-deprived (E-Reeler) retina, prospecting a potential contribution of NGF during E-Reeler retinogenesis. Herein, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), glial cells and rod bipolar cells (RBCs) were isolated from E-Reeler retinas, and NGF, trkA(NGFR)/p75(NTR) expression and apoptosis were investigated. E-Reeler (n = 28) and E-control (n = 34) retinas were digested, and RGCs, glial cells and RBCs were isolated by the magnetic bead separation. Expression of NGF, trkA(NGFR), p75(NTR), Annexin V/PI and Bcl2/Bax was quantified by flow cytometry and validated by real-time PCR or WB. In E-Reeler retinas, NGF was significantly increased in RGCs and glial cells, p75(NTR) was increased in both RBCs and RGCs, and trkA(NGFR) was unchanged. In E-control retinas, NGF and p75(NTR) were expressed mainly in RBCs and RGCs and faintly in glial cells, while trkA(NGFR) was weakly expressed by RBCs and RGCs. In RBCs and RGCs, Annexin V expression was unchanged, while Bcl2 increased and Bax decreased selectively in E-Reeler RGCs. The data indicate that E-Reeler RBCs and RGCs overexpress NGF and p75(NTR) as a protective endogenous response to Reelin deprivation. The observation is strongly supported by the absence of apoptosis in both cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bijorn Omar Balzamino
- Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Ocular Surface Unit, IRCCS-G.B. Bietti Foundation, via Alvaro del Portillo 21, 00128, Rome, Italy
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Osipov AV, Terpinskaya TI, Kryukova EV, Ulaschik VS, Paulovets LV, Petrova EA, Blagun EV, Starkov VG, Utkin YN. Nerve growth factor from cobra venom inhibits the growth of Ehrlich tumor in mice. Toxins (Basel) 2014; 6:784-95. [PMID: 24577582 PMCID: PMC3968361 DOI: 10.3390/toxins6030784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 02/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of nerve growth factor (NGF) from cobra venom (cvNGF) on growth of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells inoculated subcutaneously in mice have been studied. The carcinoma growth slows down, but does not stop, during a course of cvNGF injections and restores after the course has been discontinued. The maximal anti-tumor effect has been observed at a dose of 8 nmoles cvNGF/kg body weight. cvNGF does not impact on lifespan of mice with grafted EAC cells. K252a, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, attenuates the anti-tumor effect of cvNGF indicating the involvement of TrkA receptors in the process. cvNGF has induced also increase in body weight of the experimental animals. In overall, cvNGF shows the anti-tumor and weight-increasing effects which are opposite to those described for mammalian NGF (mNGF). However in experiments on breast cancer cell line MCF-7 cvNGF showed the same proliferative effects as mNGF and had no cytotoxic action on tumor cells in vitro. These data suggest that cvNGF slows down EAC growth via an indirect mechanism in which TrkA receptors are involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexey V Osipov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - Tatiana I Terpinskaya
- Institute of Physiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, ul. Akademicheskaya, 28, Minsk 220072, Belarus.
| | - Elena V Kryukova
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - Vladimir S Ulaschik
- Institute of Physiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, ul. Akademicheskaya, 28, Minsk 220072, Belarus.
| | - Lubov V Paulovets
- Institute of Physiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, ul. Akademicheskaya, 28, Minsk 220072, Belarus.
| | - Elena A Petrova
- Institute of Physiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, ul. Akademicheskaya, 28, Minsk 220072, Belarus.
| | - Ekaterina V Blagun
- Institute of Physiology, National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, ul. Akademicheskaya, 28, Minsk 220072, Belarus.
| | - Vladislav G Starkov
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - Yuri N Utkin
- Shemyakin-Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, ul. Miklukho-Maklaya 16/10, Moscow 117997, Russia.
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Characterization of NGF, trkA (NGFR) , and p75 (NTR) in Retina of Mice Lacking Reelin Glycoprotein. Int J Cell Biol 2014; 2014:725928. [PMID: 24627687 PMCID: PMC3928862 DOI: 10.1155/2014/725928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Both Reelin and Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) exert crucial roles in retinal development. Retinogenesis is severely impaired in E-reeler mice, a model of Reelin deficiency showing specific Green Fluorescent Protein expression in Rod Bipolar Cells (RBCs). Since no data are available on Reelin and NGF cross-talk, NGF and trkANGFR/ p75NTR expression was investigated in retinas from E-reeler versus control mice, by confocal microscopy, Western blotting, and real time PCR analysis. A scattered increase of NGF protein was observed in the Ganglion Cell Layer and more pronounced in the Inner Nuclear Layer (INL). A selective increase of p75NTR was detected in most of RBCs and in other cell subtypes of INL. On the contrary, a slight trend towards a decrease was detected for trkANGFR, albeit not significant. Confocal data were validated by Western blot and real time PCR. Finally, the decreased trkANGFR/ p75NTR ratio, representative of p75NTR increase, significantly correlated with E-reeler versus E-control. These data indicate that NGF-trkANGFR/ p75NTR is affected in E-reeler retina and that p75NTR might represent the main NGF receptor involved in the process. This first NGF-trkANGFR/ p75NTR characterization suggests that E-reeler might be suitable for exploring Reelin-NGF cross-talk, representing an additional information source in those pathologies characterized by retinal degeneration.
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Vizza D, Perri A, Lofaro D, Toteda G, Lupinacci S, Leone F, Gigliotti P, Papalia T, Bonofiglio R. Exposure to nerve growth factor worsens nephrotoxic effect induced by Cyclosporine A in HK-2 cells. PLoS One 2013; 8:e80113. [PMID: 24244623 PMCID: PMC3820545 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0080113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2013] [Accepted: 10/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerve growth factor is a neurotrophin that promotes cell growth, differentiation, survival and death through two different receptors: TrkANTR and p75NTR. Nerve growth factor serum concentrations increase during many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, glomerulonephritis, chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease and, particularly, in renal transplant. Considering that nerve growth factor exerts beneficial effects in the treatment of major central and peripheral neurodegenerative diseases, skin and corneal ulcers, we asked whether nerve growth factor could also exert a role in Cyclosporine A-induced graft nephrotoxicity. Our hypothesis was raised from basic evidence indicating that Cyclosporine A-inhibition of calcineurin-NFAT pathway increases nerve growth factor expression levels. Therefore, we investigated the involvement of nerve growth factor and its receptors in the damage exerted by Cyclosporine A in tubular renal cells, HK-2. Our results showed that in HK-2 cells combined treatment with Cyclosporine A + nerve growth factor induced a significant reduction in cell vitality concomitant with a down-regulation of Cyclin D1 and up-regulation of p21 levels respect to cells treated with Cyclosporine A alone. Moreover functional experiments showed that the co-treatment significantly up-regulated human p21promoter activity by involvement of the Sp1 transcription factor, whose nuclear content was negatively regulated by activated NFATc1. In addition we observed that the combined exposure to Cyclosporine A + nerve growth factor promoted an up-regulation of p75 NTR and its target genes, p53 and BAD leading to the activation of intrinsic apoptosis. Finally, the chemical inhibition of p75NTR down-regulated the intrinsic apoptotic signal. We describe two new mechanisms by which nerve growth factor promotes growth arrest and apoptosis in tubular renal cells exposed to Cyclosporine A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Vizza
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Anna Perri
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Danilo Lofaro
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Toteda
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Simona Lupinacci
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Francesca Leone
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Paolo Gigliotti
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Teresa Papalia
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Renzo Bonofiglio
- Kidney and Transplantation Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Dialysis and Transplantation, “Annunziata” Hospital, Cosenza, Italy
- * E-mail:
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